How far in advance should you plan your elopement?

This is one of the first questions couples ask me.

And honestly, the answer isn’t as strict as people think it is.
Some couples plan everything in over a year. Others call me and say, ‘’so… we’re thinking in 1 month. Is that crazy?’’ (spoiler: it’s usually not, it’s just that you take the risk that your photographer will not be available and/or that your dream destination will be fully booked).

Let’s break it down in a simple way.

So… when should you start planning your elopement?

If you want full flexibility, start early

If you have a specific season, location, or date in mind, starting earlier gives you more options. It’s always better not to rush decisions and to try to make things fit last minute.

This usually feels more comfortable for couples who like to think things through. You get time to imagine your day, adjust ideas and change your mind if needed.

If you’re more spontaneous, shorter timelines can work too

Not everyone wants to plan for a year. Some couples just know they want to get married soon and that’s why elopements are great for that.

Planning in a few months is often totally doable, especially if you’re flexible.

But there are some important things you need to keep an eye on that need to be booked early:

Things to book first (the non-negotiables)

Your photographer

Choosing your photographer first can make your life so much easier, especially if they can help you through your whole planning process.

I personally include planning services in all my packages because this is the part I love most, talking with couples, advising them, guiding them. I’m here not only to take pictures but also to help shape the flow of the day and to take off all the stress you could have on your shoulders.

Dates, timing, locations, light, and even vendor recommendations often depends on this booking.

Many couples are surprised by how much smoother planning feels once this is locked in.

Your location & destination

This is the base of your entire day. Weather, season, accessibility, vibe, travel… everything depends on where you go. You will also need to check the passport situation of the country you chose, to avoid bad surprises.

Don’t hesitate to check out my travel resources to help you choose the best destination for you.

Once the location is chosen, planning suddenly becomes much clearer.

Accommodation (lodging)

Where you stay impacts how the day feels. Proximity to locations, comfort, light, privacy… all of this matters more than people expect.

It’s your wedding day!!! Don’t forget!!

Good places book fast, especially in popular destinations, so this shouldn’t be left last.

Then come the key people of your day : vendors & guests

Hair & makeup

Of course, you’re not forced to have someone do your hair and makeup, but if you want to have 0 stress during that day it’s important you start looking at the hair stylists and make up artists who will be available on your day in your destination.

If your photographer helps you with planning, your job will only be to compare the different options you will receive and choose which one’s best for you.

Availability can be limited, so it’s better to book sooner rather than later, especially during high season (April-October).

Florist

Want to include a beautiful bouquet or some flowers in your elopements pictures? It can add a lot visually, and it doesn’t need to be big or expensive.

Officiant (if needed)

Depending on the country and whether your ceremony is legal or symbolic, this can vary.
Some destinations require booking this early, others are more flexible.

Your guests!

If you want to have some close family or friends, it’s then time to include them and see if they would be available for your big day (they better be!). You need to start early for them to choose their accommodation and to book their flights if they have to.

After that: the details you can take your time with

Outfits (dress, suits, or whatever you choose)

You can either have the dress of your dreams already in mind or you can take your time to choose which outfit will fit your vibe. Especially if you want to go hiking or jet skiing, you will have to choose a comfortable outfit (don’t worry you can still wear a beautiful dress right after your activity or the next day if your elopement lasts multiple days).

Permits

Depending on your location, it’s important to look at permits and if you will need to have some or not. Again, your photographer can help you on that too!

Activities

You probably already have some ideas about what you’ll want to do during your elopement but sometimes last minute ideas can pop out, and booking them beforehand can be very helpful.

Transportation

Car, boat, helicopter… this often depends on locations and timing, so it makes sense to finalize later.
Some couples keep it simple, others turn it into a part of their experience.

Packing!

It’s very important you try to think about what you’ll be bringing on your elopement trip 2-3 weeks before so that you don’t get bad surprises the day before.

Small extras

Picnic setup, champagne, music, letters, accessories… these are the fun parts. They usually fall into place naturally once the bigger things are set.

Budget-wise: what usually costs the most (and the least) in your elopement expenses

What usually costs the most

• Travel & accommodation : if you’re eloping in another country/continent, flights could be expensive if it’s high season and you’re booking last minute.

• Photographer: investing in your photographer is one of the most important decision to take. These pictures will be with you your whole life, when memories won’t. You need to find someone who matches your vibe and who you can be comfortable with because you will be spending your most perfect day with this person. Check out: where to find and how to choose my elopement photographer.

• Hair & makeup: you can find affordable hair and makeup artists but it all depends on your location and if it’s high season or not.

• Activities: if you want to have a helicopter tour or swim with dolphins, this can add on your expenses. But who cares? If you won’t do it on your wedding, then when ??

What usually costs less than expected

• Outfits: if it’s not the newest Dior wedding dress, you can find very affordable outfits depending on the vibe you want to get.
  
• Florals: if you keep them simple, you can find some flowers which will not cost you a lot.
  
• Transportation
  
• Ceremony elements
  
• Styling & extras

Now you’ll may be asking yourself if traditional weddings are more expensive than elopements and my answer is: no. The expenses are just different. In your elopement you won’t have to pay for a huge venue and a huge buffet for 100+ people but you will probably need to pay for your experience and travel, if you decide to have a destination elopement.

How I help couples through all of this

Most couples don’t come to me with everything figured out, and they don’t need to.

They come with a feeling, a rough idea, or simply the desire to do things differently.

From there, I help you connect the dots: locations that make sense, realistic timelines, vendor recommendations, and decisions that feel right instead of overwhelming.

Planning an elopement doesn’t have to feel like a puzzle. With the right guidance, it becomes a process that is clear, calm and even enjoyable.

Another resource that could help you imagine what a real elopement looks like: What happens during an elopement wedding, a real timeline.

So if you have any questions or want help to plan your elopement, don’t hesitate to contact me, I would be more than happy to be part of your journey!

Let me help you plan your unique elopement!